Tom Brokaw to Host Calif. Gubernatorial Debate

Veteran newsman to be sole questioner at Oct. 12 event

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WASHINGTON - MARCH 22: (AFP OUT) Tom Brokaw of NBC News listens during a live taping of "Meet the Press" at NBC studios on March 22, 2009 in Washington, DC. Brokaw and anchor of CNBC's "Street Signs" Erin Burnett appeared on the show's roundtable segment to speak about the efforts to stimulate the U.S. economy and outrage resulting from the bonuses to AIG executives. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images for Meet the Press) *** Local Caption *** Tom Brokaw

Veteran newsman Tom Brokaw is coming to the Bay Area to moderate a gubernatorial debate.

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"The fact that a journalist of Tom's stature is involved in the debate reflects the impact that California has on issues facing our country from health care to economic recovery." Dominican University President Joseph Fink said in a news release. "As a University known for social responsibility, Dominican is well-positioned to offer a thoughtful platform for the candidates to present their views."

Brown and Whitman are scheduled to face off in three debates before the November election.

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It's a full-circle type of assignment for Brokaw, who covered Brown's first run for office more than 40 years ago. He was also a White House correspondent in his earlier years and has moderated presidential debates since 1976. He lives in Montana now but his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughters live in San Francisco.

"This election comes at a critical time for the citizens of California, and as the campaign unfolds over the next few months, the country will be watching to see who will become the next governor," Brokaw said. "I am particularly excited about participating in this debate because I began my NBC News career covering California politics in 1966."